Daejeon, renowned as Korea's science capital, is set to host the nation's largest science culture festival. The Daejeon Metropolitan City, in collaboration with the Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT), will hold the '2025 Korea Science & Technology Festival' for five days, from April 16th to 20th. The festival will take place across the city center, including Expo Citizen Plaza, Expo Science Park, and the Daejeon Convention Center (DCC).

This year's festival marks an unprecedented integration of three major science events: the Daejeon Science Festival (organized by Daejeon City), the Korea Science Festival (organized by MSIT), and the Korea Science & Technology Fair (organized by MSIT). This synergy has resulted in a record-breaking scale, with the participation of 518 organizations nationwide and the presentation of 849 diverse and engaging science contents.

The grand opening ceremony is scheduled for 7:00 PM on April 16th at the main stage of Expo Citizen Plaza. Under the theme 'The Engine of Science and Technology, Igniting Curiosity,' the opening will feature a captivating storytelling performance inspired by the movie 'Inside Out.' Following the performance, a keynote speech will be delivered by esteemed UNIST Distinguished Professor Lee Sedol, renowned for his achievements in artificial intelligence. The evening will culminate in a celebratory musical performance by popular singer Kwon Jin-ah.

This year's festival revolves around the central theme of 'Curiosity,' and the event venues are strategically divided into three distinct zones to offer varied science experiences tailored to different interests. These zones include:

Curiosity Theme Park: Located at Expo Science Park, Hanbat Arboretum (East and West Gardens), DCC Exhibition Hall 1, and the Gapcheon riverside area, this zone will host the main programs of the Daejeon Science Festival.
Curiosity Power Plant (Korea Science Festival): Situated at Expo Citizen Plaza and the circular plaza of Hanbat Arboretum, this zone will feature interactive science booths operated by government-funded research institutions, universities, corporations, and organizations. Stage performances such as magic shows and sand art will also entertain family visitors.
Curiosity Laboratory (Korea Science & Technology Fair): Housed in DCC Exhibition Hall 2, this zone will showcase cutting-edge R&D achievements in national strategic technologies, exhibits from CES (Consumer Electronics Show), and outstanding research outcomes from government research institutes and universities, providing opportunities for direct engagement with advanced technologies.
The 'Curiosity Theme Park' will feature a range of signature programs. The World Science Culture Forum, themed 'Hi, Ai,' will be held from April 18th to 19th at DCC Exhibition Hall 1, bringing together experts and enthusiasts to discuss the latest trends and implications of artificial intelligence. From April 18th to 20th, the west lawn of Hanbat Arboretum will transform into an outdoor literary museum, 'Literary Garden with Science,' blending literature and scientific themes in an engaging outdoor setting. Along the Gapcheon riverside, visitors can enjoy thrilling drone racing competitions and mesmerizing nighttime hot air balloon experiences.

The area around the Hanbit Tower will be transformed into a 'Picnic Zone' with artificial turf, providing a relaxing space for families. Adjacent to this, the 'D-FOOD Universe' will showcase ten of Daejeon's representative restaurants and fifteen local food trucks, offering visitors from across the country a taste of the unique culinary flavors of Daejeon.

The 'Curiosity Power Plant' at Expo Citizen Plaza and the circular plaza of Hanbat Arboretum will be a hub of interactive learning. Numerous science experience booths, operated by various institutions, will offer hands-on activities for visitors of all ages. A unique feature of this zone is the 'Curiosity Broadcasting Station,' an air dome-shaped open studio where science YouTubers and influencers will create and broadcast live, interactive science content, fostering direct communication with the audience.

The 'Curiosity Laboratory' at DCC Exhibition Hall 2 will serve as a platform to explore the forefront of scientific and technological advancements. Key R&D outcomes in national strategic technology sectors, innovative products showcased at CES, and exemplary research findings from government-funded research institutes and universities will be on display. This zone aims to provide an immersive experience with state-of-the-art technologies, allowing visitors to witness and interact with the future of science.

Furthermore, an industrial exhibition hall on the first floor of the Daejeon Convention Center will highlight companies related to Daejeon's six strategic industries and advanced technology sectors. This integration of science culture and regional industry aims to not only promote scientific understanding but also showcase local technological prowess and provide industry-related experiences.

This grand-scale event is meticulously designed to enhance public understanding of science and technology and to make science accessible and enjoyable for all generations, particularly the youth. The 2025 Daejeon Science Festival is poised to significantly elevate Daejeon's standing as Korea's leading science city and to showcase the excellence of its science and technology infrastructure to the entire nation.

Detailed schedules, programs, and transportation information for the event can be found on the official website or by searching for 'Korea Science & Technology Festival' on major portal sites.

Daejeon Metropolitan City Mayor Lee Jang-woo stated, "This year's festival presents a golden opportunity to enhance the accessibility of science culture and to firmly establish Daejeon as the science capital of Korea. We have prepared a diverse array of programs that can be enjoyed by everyone – from young individuals nurturing their dreams as scientists to families, couples, and friends. We eagerly anticipate enthusiastic participation from all."

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